Tell us
a little about the decision for CSU-Pueblo. When did you start talking with
them? What sealed the deal?

My first encounter with Coach Morris was after
I won the Pueblo Central Invitational in September. After keeping in touch, I
had my official visit in October. My visit is what sealed the deal for me. I
quickly saw that the team is a good fit, and Coach Morris is the real
deal.

What do you plan to study at
CSU-Pueblo?

I plan to study Mass
Communications or Exercise Science.

You've been part of the coming of age
of Widefield cross country. Tell us about a defining moment along the way where
you--and maybe your teammates as well--realized this could be something
special.

Widefield High School
Cross Country has definitely become a big deal in our school and community. It
was obvious that we had something special when last year at The Cheyenne
Mountain Stampede, we won a close match and came out on top. I'll never forget
being on top of the trailer when the crowd was cheering: "Must be the water!" I
believe that race gave us a lot of confidence and helped us finish second at
state last year. This year was a little rough without our graduates, but I
believe that we have started a legacy at Widefield High School.

You ran for three years with Max
Martinez. What's something you learned from Max?

I don't think that I
would be anywhere near the runner I am today without Max. He always pushed me
to go that extra mile, literally, and that the small things will make a big
difference. I'm very thankful for all he's done for me. I definitely missed him
this year, but I'm glad he's off doing great things for the CSU Rams!

You played basketball up until the
last couple of years, then gave it up. What factored into the decison? Have you
ever looked back and wondered?

Basketball was always
a huge part of my life from elementary school up until high school, but I
realized that I may actually be a little good at this running thing my
sophomore year at Nike Cross Regionals. It also seemed like my love for the
game of basketball was slowly transferring to the sport of running. After a lot
of thinking and talking with friends and family, I decided to quit playing
basketball in the winter and summer to run year-long. I have no regrets with my
decision, and I'm blessed to be able to compete in college.

Do you have any goals for your final
high school season in the spring that you're willing to share with us?

Yes! One goal I have
is to get my 800 and 1600 meter times down because those aren't too impressive.
However, my biggest goal is to break the school record of 9:30 for the 3200,
which is currently held by my former teammate Max Martinez. Sorry, Max!